K-Drama ‘Goblin’ – Filming Locations in Korea

March 15, 2017

It has become a rule that hit Korean dramas almost certainly boost tourism in locations where the dramas were filmed. Goblin (or Guardian: the Lonely and Great God) is certainly one such drama. Instead of asking 「Have you seen Goblin?」, fans of the show are now asking 「Have you been to Goblin’s filming locations?」 To better help a large number of fans revisiting classic scenes in the show, we have chosen the ‘Top 6 Locations’ where some of the most memorable scenes were filmed.

1. Borinara Hagwon Farm

Speaking of the beautiful garden exclusive to Kim Shin where he likes to enjoy quietude by himself, the scene that immediately comes to mind is the sea of white blossoms. Many of the 「first-ever」 scenesGong Yoowere filmed right here. It is here that 900 years ago, among the snow-white buckwheat flowers, that Kim Shin first becomes a goblin after he dies from a fatal sword wound; and where Kim Shin attempts to pull out the sword for the first time. It is also here where Ji Eun-tak has her first kiss with Kim Shin and also where Kim Shin and his bride unite in matrimony and take the sacred vow.

2. Jumunjin Beach, Gangwon Province

Ji Eun-tak accidentally summons Kim Shin on the breakwater of Jumunjin Beach. Today, this beach in Gangneung-si, Gangwon Province is a must-see for couples who plan going on a pilgrimage tour of the locations filmed in the Goblin drama.

3. Yanggwan Hall (Unhyeongung Palace)

This French Renaissance architecture and garden, which is in the proximity of the Unhyeon Palace, is a rare jewel in the heart of Seoul. Exuding an air of nobility, this handsome mansion is where Kim Shin calls home and shares his living space with another unusual character in the drama, the ‘Angel of Death.’ The mansion made it’s debut in a 2006 hit drama 「Princess Hours,」 but didn’t attract much attention. With its second appearance in Goblin, the mansion is finally on the official list of popular K-drama destinations.

Fans of Goblin probably wish to dine and experience first hand at this western style cafe restaurant where Kim Shin and Ji Eun-tak often go for beef meals. But since it’s in Quebec, Canada, that’s not exactly close to home. Wait~~~what? Just kidding! This restaurant is actually a coffee shop called ZINO, and it’s right in Paju, Gyeonggi-do.

5. The Stone Wall Alleyway in Samcheong-dong

In Goblin, the fateful encounter of the 900-year-old Kim Shin and his predestined 19-year-old bride takes place on this stone wall alleyway, which is enough to throw this previously ordinary stretch of the famous Samcheong-dong art and fashion district into the spotlight, exceeding even the famous stone wall alleyway outside of Deoksugung Palace.

6. Naju Image Theme Park

The stories begin on these steps, where Kim Shin, once a warrior god, has a sword pierced through his chest by king Wang Yeo. Wang reincarnates as the reaper of souls, and his fate and Kim’s again intertwine for a time span of 900 years.